Newbold Surgery partner Dr Ann Gedge (centre) had no idea she had won the award until it was presented to her at the practice by patient Emma Duffy (right) and NHS North Derbyshire CCG chair Dr Ben Milton (left).

Nominating her GP for the award, Ms Duffy wrote: 'Earlier this year I arrived at my GP’s in a suicidal state. Throughout the difficult situation she offered support and reassurance to both me and my mum, staying with us for the hours leading up to the admission.

'Suffering with mental health problems, I often feel I’m treated as a timewaster, and misunderstood. My GP has never made me feel like this. Instead of judging me she takes the time to listen. She’s shown belief, motivated me to keep fighting and made me realise recovery is possible.'

The awards scheme was set up under former health secretary Andrew Lansley to recognise the NHS's 'unsung heroes'.

A GP since 1990, Dr Gedge has been a partner in the Newbold Surgery for 19 years. She told GP: 'My practice manager knew, but I didn’t know anything about the award. It was lovely – I just went up into our coffee room and the patient was there.

'I was delighted. I was touched. But everyone at my surgery are heroes, not just me.'